[Texgreen] Only in Texas

[Roger Baker]

Texas Bill: Let Blind Hunters Use Lasers



December 11,2006 | AUSTIN, Texas -- A lawmaker in this firearm-
friendly state wants to help more people get the chance to shoot live
animals -- even if those people can't see.

A bill filed for the 2007 legislative session would permit legally
blind hunters to use laser sights, or lighted pointing instruments.

"This opens up the fun of hunting to additional people, and I think
that's great," said Republican Rep. Edmund Kuempel, the bill's sponsor.

Visually impaired people are allowed to shoot now with the aid of a
sighted person, he said, a requirement that would continue if the
sights were legalized.

"I've seen this on TV before, when they're taking target practice,"
Kuempel said. "When they aim the gun, the guide tells them, aim two
inches higher or two inches lower and you're on the target, and
you're off and running."

Kuempel's bill would give the state until Jan. 1, 2008, to come up
with a definition of legally blind so the law could be enforced.

Under existing law, the use of laser sights, spotlights and
headlights is strictly prohibited in all Texas hunting. The practice
can have the effect of making animals stand still as the light shines
on them. Hunters using sights under the proposed legislation would
have to carry proof that they are legally blind.

The Legislature convenes Jan. 9 for its 140-day session.